The state Senate advanced a measure on Wednesday that would eliminate jail time for possessing less than 10 grams of marijuana. If passed, those caught with small amounts of marijuana would face a $100 fine in civil court.

Under current law, a person holding less than 10 grams of marijuana could face up to 90 days in jail and a $500 fine.

The bill's sponsor, Baltimore County Democrat Sen. Bobby Zirkin, said the measure would save the state money by relieving the strain such crimes put on the criminal justice system.

The legislation drew concern from Sen. E.J. Pipkin, a Cecil County Republican, who worries that the measure could increase drug use among young people.

A bizarre situation is unfolding in Baltimore in which people are paying rent to a landlord who claims he's helping fill the need for affordable housing, but there are serious questions about the living conditions inside, as well as who actually owns the homes.